Dental Care for the Mature Adult

Dental Care for the Mature Adult
Like many people, you may associate regular dental checkups, prevention and cosmetic dentistry with younger patients. You may think that fluoride treatment is just "kid stuff." Actually, all of these services may be important to you in retaining your smile for a lifetime.

What Are Some Common Concerns of the Mature Dental Patient?
As we mature, certain changes take place in our bodies. Along with changes in the body come changes in the mouth, teeth and gums, which may include:

• A dry mouth
• Periodontal (gum) disease
• Decay of exposed roots of the teeth
• Darkening of the natural tooth color
• Unsightly cracks, fractures or discoloration of fillings
• Missing teeth
• Loose or ill-fitting dentures

These conditions can be treated with proper dental care. And if you still have some or all of your natural teeth, chances are you can keep your smile for the rest of your life.

Why Does My Mouth Seem Drier Than It Used To Be?
You may have a condition referred to as "xerostomia" literally, "dry mouth." Some causes of this condition in older patients include:

• Drug therapy
• Chronic diseases or conditions
• Radiation therapy
• Salivary gland changes

Dry mouth is of concern to older patients because it may make talking, chewing or swallowing more difficult. It also can leave your teeth and gums more susceptible to disease and injuries; it can make denture retention more difficult, and can lead to tooth decay.

Therapies are available for dry mouth. You may find commercially prepared saliva substitutes helpful. These preparations can be applied directly to dentures or to the mouth.

Other drugs are available that can stimulate salivary flow. If you would like recommendations or additional information about alleviating dry mouth, just ask us.

These conditions can be treated with proper dental care. And if you still have some or all of your natural teeth, chances are you can keep your smile for the rest of your life.

What Causes Decay At The Roots
The root portion (cervix) of the tooth becomes exposed when bone and gum tissue are lost due to disease. If you currently are experiencing problems with root exposure or decay, there are three lifestyle changes you can make:

• Toothbrushing method-to reduce abrasion, which can increase loss of normal tissues
• Dietary habits-to reduce your intake of decay producing foods
• Use of dental floss or toothpicks-to reduce injury to your oral tissues

Another measure that may be helpful to you in preventing root decay is the application of topical fluoride at your checkups. That's right! Fluoride treatments are not just for kids!
Many older adults benefit from this added protection-especially those who may experience dry mouth or root exposure. If you like, we can also prescribe a home fluoride rinse for you.

How Important Are Regular Checkups At
Regular dental checkups are as important for you as they are for your children or grandchildren. Routine care and cleanings help detect early signs of disease or other changes that may be taking place in your mouth. And earlier diagnosis usually means a better chance of recovery.

What About Gum Disease ... Doesn't Everyone Eventually Get It?
Not necessarily. While periodontal (gum) disease can lead to loss of teeth and bone support, it's not always inevitable. You can help prevent the loss of your teeth due to gum disease with scrupulous brushing and flossing techniques at home-between regular cleaning and examination appointments. If you have difficulty in performing these home care methods, we'll be happy to offer some helpful suggestions.

If I Wear Dentures, Why Do I Need Dental Checkups?
Denture wearers require routine checkups for a number of reasons:

• Oral cancer screening
• Breakage
• Loss of height of denture teeth
• Loss of proper bite
• Chronic irritation of tissues under the dentures

So it's just as important for denture patients to have routine checkups as those patients with natural teeth.

What About Cosmetic Dentistry? Can It Improve My Smile?
Absolutely. Modern dentistry offers several advances that can improve the appearance of your natural smile:

• New, improved tooth bleaching methods
• Bonding materials that adhere to the natural teeth
• Porcelain veneers that cover the front surfaces of teeth for an esthetic, natural appearance.

Keep Your Smile For A Lifetime
If you have further questions about your oral health, please ask us. Exciting new options and techniques are now available to enhance your smile. Our goal is to help you maintain chewing comfort and a bright smile for a lifetime.